President Donald Trump’s announcement of a 10% import tariff on all goods entering the United States has sparked global criticism and warnings of severe economic consequences. The Trump 10 percent import tariff, set to take effect on April 5, aims to counter what the president calls “unfair trade practices.”
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen described the move as a “major blow to the world economy.” She warned that the decision would trigger “spiraling uncertainty” and bring “dire consequences for millions globally.” According to her, vulnerable economies would face the harshest effects. The European Union, facing a 20% tariff, is now preparing coordinated countermeasures.
“If you take on one of us, you take on all of us,” von der Leyen declared, emphasizing a united EU response.
Other global leaders also reacted swiftly. China, hit with a combined 54% tariff, condemned the decision. The Ministry of Commerce demanded an immediate reversal and promised “resolute countermeasures” to defend its economic interests.
In East Asia, Taiwan labeled the move “highly unreasonable,” while Premier Cho Jung-tai vowed to lodge a formal protest. South Korea’s acting president Han Duck-soo declared that “a global trade war has become a reality.” Meanwhile, Japan warned that the 24% tariff could violate both World Trade Organization (WTO) rules and bilateral trade agreements.
Thailand, slapped with a 36% tariff, announced it would seek negotiations. In contrast, Australia, subject to the 10% base rate, criticized the move but said it would avoid retaliatory action. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese warned that “Americans will pay the biggest price” through inflation and slower growth.
The backlash wasn’t limited to Asia and Europe. Brazil responded by passing the Economic Reciprocity Law, allowing the government to impose equal trade barriers against the US. The foreign ministry is also exploring legal options through the WTO.
In Canada, Prime Minister Mark Carney confirmed that Trump’s tariffs would directly affect millions. A new 25% tariff on automobiles, beginning at midnight Thursday, could hit Canadian manufacturers hard. “We will fight these tariffs with countermeasures,” Carney said.
Mexico and Canada were not explicitly mentioned in Trump’s announcement. However, White House officials later confirmed that both countries remain subject to prior executive orders that imposed 25% tariffs, tied to fentanyl and border security issues.
In Europe, reactions varied but aligned in concern. Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, a Trump ally, called the decision “wrong” but pledged to work toward a deal to avoid escalation. Spain’s Pedro Sánchez reaffirmed his support for “an open world.” Ireland’s Taoiseach Micheál Martin called the move “deeply regrettable” and “beneficial to no one.”
French President Emmanuel Macron has scheduled emergency meetings with industry leaders affected by the new levies. His government is also evaluating legal and diplomatic options.
Back in Washington, Trump defended the measure, calling it long overdue. “This is payback,” he said. “I’ve been very kind, but it’s time to make America wealthy again.” He insisted the tariff would revitalize US manufacturing and create domestic jobs.
Despite warnings from abroad, the White House stood firm. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent urged countries not to retaliate. “If you retaliate, there will be escalation,” he told Fox News. “Sometimes you need to sit back and take it in.”
UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer acknowledged the economic impact but promised to remain calm and committed to securing a bilateral deal with the US. “We’ll fight to soften the blow of these tariffs as we enter a new era,” he said.
Meanwhile, Israel, which had eliminated tariffs on US goods in anticipation of a trade agreement, expressed shock over its 17% tariff rate. “We were sure that removing our tariffs would protect us,” an Israeli official told local media.
As the world braces for what could be a prolonged period of trade disruption, economists warn that Trump’s move may fundamentally reshape the global trade system. Whether through diplomacy or confrontation, the response in the coming weeks will shape economic relationships for years to come.
